FOUR schoolboys arrested after an alleged rape have been accused of sexually assaulting a second girl.
The horror was said to have unfolded in a Rochdale Morrisons car park at the weekend.
The boys, aged 12 to 14, were arrested on Sunday after a “female child” was said to have been attacked.
Cops today said they were now investigating a second assault on a schoolgirl from the same night.
Greater Manchester Police said officers had been raced to the Newbold supermarket car park around 6pm on Saturday.
Cops quickly taped off the area, with a blue tent seen inside the cordon in the hours that followed.
The following day four boys, a 12 and 13-year-old and two 14-year-olds, were taken into custody – where they remained until this morning.
The force this evening said the boys had been released on bail, while the two victims are being “safeguarded”.
Detective Superintendent Phil Key said; “As with all investigations into sexual offences, the victims remain our priority, and we have dedicated specialist resources in place to support them and their families as the investigation continues to progress.
“We understand that an incident of such nature is no doubt going to cause the community concern.
“This is why we continue to have an increased visible presence in the area for reassurance, working alongside key partner agencies, as well as additional resources from our Specialist Operations branch patrolling the local transport hubs and networks.
“I would encourage anyone with concerns to speak to them.
“The four suspects arrested at the weekend have been bailed with strict conditions. We are continuing to liaise with the CPS to ensure the investigation progresses towards a prosecution. I can assure the victims and our communities that securing justice is our priority.
“As to not impact the possibility of justice in this case, I would continue to ask the public to refrain from speculating on social media about the names of the victims and suspects involved. By law, they are all entitled to anonymity.”
If you or someone you know has been a victim of rape or sexual assault, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency.
You can also report information and crimes at police websites.
Alternatively, you can report information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
There are also lots of organisations and support agencies available across the country that can help and provide support for you.
For more information and to find the support services available to you, please visit our support pages.
